THE PILGRIMS GUIDE MONDAY AUGUST 31, 2026 GUARD THE GATES OF THE HEART   A WORD FROM THE WORD: "LORD, who may dwell in your sacred tent? Who may live on your holy mountain? The one whose walk is blameless, who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from their heart." Psalm 15:1-2 NIV. King David, by the Holy Spirit's inspiration in our anchor Scripture examines the root cause of disqualification of many from the presence of God. He then provided a list of attitudes, habits and practices that qualify one to be in the presence of God, such as uprightness, righteousness and truth in the heart, among others, are the top requirements for one to remain in God's presence. Solomon, the wise king, again, by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit once counsels, '......Guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.' (Proverbs 4:23 NIV). Our LORD Jesus admonishes further, '......Out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false witness, slander. (Matthew 15:19 ESV). When a heart is leaky, backbiting, evil imaginations, judgmental reproach of brethren and pride will dominate the character. However, a submissive, sanctified and consecrated life always seeks to keep the gates of the heart closed to the rampaging habits and ways of life that dominate the present evil world system. If you desire to ascend God's holy hill, then strive to guard your heart with all diligence and keep your gates closed to all influences of sin. Shut out every manner of evil companions, evil communicnations, gain mastery over your appetite, be careful how you spend your time and your money, be watchful over any wiles of the devil that may want to take advantage of any little opening in your heart. Guard the gates of your heart safe and secure by prayer, righteous living and the Word of God. Don't forsake the assembly of God's people, fellowship with other believers regualrly and find something doing for God. This way the gates of your heart will be shut against the enemy of your soul and destiny. PRAYER BULLETS: Father LORD, thank You for the privilege of salvation. I ask that You purge my heart of every sinful pollutant. Give me the strength for righteous living, that my heart may not be lured into sin. FURTHER READING: Psalm 24:3-5; Proverbs 4:20-27; Philippians 4:8-9; 1 Corinthians 15:33. __________________________________________ ©️ Amaobi Nwachukwu 2026. If you're blessed by this, please, do share with others. And if you'll like to partner with us, kindly check page 3 of our hard copy edition or better still send us a WhatsApp message or call on +234 8098421967. #ThePilgrimsGuide.